Height
5 meters
Year Built
1988
Address
Dandenong Road, Kew, VIC 3101
The Lowdown
The Big Axe stands as a powerful tribute to Australia's timber industry and the generations of axemen who shaped the Australian bush. This impressive sculpture depicts an enormous axe embedded in a log, capturing the moment of impact that symbolizes the hard work and skill of timber workers. The axe represents not just an industry, but a way of life that defined rural Australia for centuries - from the cedar-getters of the early colony to the hardwood mills that built the nation's homes and infrastructure. It serves as a reminder of the days when timber-felling was done by hand, requiring immense strength, precision, and endurance.
Did you know?
"Australia has produced multiple world wood-chopping champions"
History
The Big Axe was erected in 1988 as part of Australia's bicentenary celebrations, honoring the timber workers who played a crucial role in Australia's development. From the first days of European settlement, timber was essential for building, fencing, and fuel. The axe represents the primary tool used before chainsaws, requiring incredible skill to fell massive eucalypts. Today, competitive wood-chopping remains a popular sport at agricultural shows across Australia.
More Fun Facts
- •Professional axemen could fell a 3-foot diameter tree in under 5 minutes
- •Wood-chopping has been a competitive sport in Australia since 1870
- •The Australian Axemen's Association was formed in 1930
- •Australia has produced multiple world wood-chopping champions
- •Traditional timber-felling required different axes for standing and undercut techniques
Visiting Tips
- 💡Great photo opportunity with the axe and log
- 💡Learn about competitive wood-chopping at Australian ag shows
- 💡Visit Gippsland forests to see Australia's tallest trees
- 💡The Melbourne Museum has exhibits on Victoria's timber industry
- 💡Check out the Toolangi Forest Discovery Centre for more timber heritage
Opening Hours
The Big Axe can be viewed at any time.
More Big Things Nearby
Big Lizzie
Australia's largest traction engine at Red Cliffs, VIC, a working piece of pioneering history.
Big Ned Kelly
A 6-meter tall fibreglass statue of Australia's most famous bushranger, standing guard over the historic township where Ned Kelly made his last stand.
Giant Koala
A 14-meter tall bronze and fibreglass koala weighing 12 tonnes, marking the gateway to the Grampians region on the Western Highway.